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Boosting the UK’s digital talent pipeline

by Simon Foulds

Creating new pathways for young people to embark on a tech-driven future is helping grow the UK’s digital skills base, ensuring industries like construction can access the talent they need.

To achieve this, Causeway Technologies is strengthening its long-standing partnership by investing £1 million into the Royal Institution (Ri) to encourage those from underserved communities to benefit from this collaboration.  

Expanding Access to Computer Science Education

Over the next five years, Causeway Technologies’ investment will enable the Royal Institution to significantly broaden the reach of its highly respected Computer Science Masterclasses. These inspiring sessions, which have already introduced over 3,000 students to real-world technology skills, will be extended beyond schools and into local communities.

By working with youth clubs, sports organisations, and faith groups, the programme will bring STEM learning to areas that have traditionally lacked access to high-quality digital education. This approach not only strengthens the pipeline of digitally skilled young people but also ensures that future innovators and problem-solvers come from all walks of life.

The next phase of the programme has a particular focus on increasing participation among girls and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, addressing long-standing inequalities in STEM and technology education.

Empowering Communities with Scalable Resources

As part of the initiative, Causeway Technologies is also supporting the development of ready-to-use learning materials and workshops, allowing community groups to deliver impactful computer science sessions without needing specialist expertise. This ensures the programme is scalable, sustainable, and capable of creating long-term change.

Phil Brown, Executive Chairman of Causeway Technologies, comments: “As a construction technology company, we see every day how important digital skills are to the future of our industry. Yet too many young people, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, still lack access to quality STEM education that could set them on that path. That’s why we’re supporting the Royal Institution to help bring computer science learning to the communities that need it most.

“We want every young person to have the chance to explore technology, build practical skills, and see how they could one day contribute to industries like construction. Causeway is proud to power the next generation of innovators in construction tech and beyond.”

The Royal Institution: Inspiring Future Tech Leaders

The Royal Institution, founded in 1799, is one of the UK’s most respected scientific organisations, with a proud legacy of public engagement and education. Through its Masterclass programme, the Ri provides young people with hands-on, interactive learning experiences, creating a gateway to exciting and rewarding careers.

Ben Dornan, Computer Science Masterclass Coordinator at the Ri, explains: “Our Ri Masterclasses provide an inspiring and interactive learning environment, showing young people that computer science is not just for the classroom but can be an exciting and rewarding career path.

“By working with local community groups, we can reach those who might not otherwise have access to these opportunities, helping them to unlock their potential and gain the skills needed for a future in technology.”

The Ri’s work has already made a profound impact on thousands of students, and with Causeway Technologies’ continued support, its reach and influence are set to grow even further.

Investing in British Digital Talent

Paul Devlin, CEO of Causeway Technologies, emphasises the importance of building homegrown digital skills to drive innovation in sectors like construction: “Having built our own construction technology platform, CausewayOne, from the ground up, we understand first-hand the advanced skills, creativity, and hands-on experience it takes to develop industry-transforming solutions.

“That’s why this partnership matters so much. It’s not just about education—it’s about investing in British talent to grow the digital capabilities our industry urgently needs.”

Celebrating a Shared Commitment to Digital Inclusion

To mark the launch of this expanded partnership, a commemorative plaque was unveiled at the Royal Institution’s historic London home on 19 June 2025. The event brought together leaders from both organisations to celebrate their shared mission: widening access to digital education and inspiring the next generation of technology talent.


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